How to Start a Nonprofit Bingo
Bingo is a game that has a huge following, especially in the United States. The popularity of this game of chance makes it a good choice for a fundraiser for nonprofit organizations. Bingos have the potential to raise thousands of dollars in a single night. However, before you plan to hold a nonprofit Bingo to benefit your organization, you need to understand the rules and regulations attached to operating a nonprofit Bingo.
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Instructions
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Organize your Bingo game. Before you can apply for a license to hold a Bingo game, you will need to decide how the Bingo will be setup. For example, how many cards will be sold per game, how many games will be held, what will you charge per card, and what prizes will you be offering. You will also need to outline an estimate of the proceeds that you anticipate to bring in and how the money will be used by your nonprofit organization.
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Complete the paperwork to start a nonprofit Bingo. You will get this paperwork from your state's licensing department. Some of the forms that you may be required to fill out include: a license application, a distribution of proceeds schedule, a quarterly report (if holding ongoing Bingos), a Bingo door count form, an income per occasion form, and a Bingo payout report. Your state may also require that your Bingo's manager to be certified by the state. Your state's department of revenue or its licensing board will have all the forms that you need to operate a nonprofit Bingo.
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Plan your Bingo. After you have completed all of your paperwork, you will be ready to sit down and decide when the Bingo will be held, where it will be held and how often it will be held. You will also need to figure out how you will staff the event, what supplies you will need and what prizes to offer up to winners. You will also want to select marketing themes for your nonprofit Bingos, such as Marti Gras Bingo Night or Summer Bingo Madness. You will use the theme to promote your bingo games and to select your decorations, prizes and favors. .
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Purchase, rent or borrow the items that you will need for your nonprofit Bingo. You will need to buy food and refreshments for the event, or hire a caterer to handle refreshments. You will need to pick up decorations, and you will need to buy or rent game equipment. Party supply companies are good resources for most of the items that you will need, and they may even have Bingo equipment you can rent. Finally, don't forget to buy or collect your prizes. To save money, ask for prize donations from local vendors, businesses and individuals.
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Hold your first Bingo. You will need to set up the bingo hall with tables, chairs and decorations. You will also need a card buying table and a cashier's stand. The calling booth will need to have a table and chair for the caller, bingo call number roller and a PA (public address) system. This booth should also be decorated festively. Finally, you will want to have refreshments for your players such as soda pop, water, coffee, tea, and juice. You'll need snack foods like chips, popcorn, nachos, pizza, and sweets.
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Tips & Warnings
If you plan on serving alcohol, you will need a liquor license. This can be obtained through your state's licensing department.
